We know of at least one other NFL team that is truly exploring every avenue when it comes to its head coaching search – even inquiring about a trade for Mike Tomlin with the Steelers.
The Bears had the gumption to check in with Pittsburgh on the Super Bowl winning coach’s availability as they called to see if they could talk to Tomlin and try to swing a deal for his service, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported early Saturday morning.
The Steelers denied their request, which never made it to Tomlin.
At least one other team also asked about a potential trade and was told Tomlin has a no-trade clause in his contract before moving on, according to ESPN.
Tomlin, despite his shaky status in Pittsburgh, didn’t appear ready to move on from the franchise. He responded “save your time” when asked earlier this week about other teams wanting to know if he was interested in a move.
Tolmin, 52, signed a three-year contract extension last offseason and just completed his 18th campaign in Pittsburgh. But the franchise seems to be stuck in neutral after five straight one-and-done playoff appearances over the past eight years.
Pittsburgh was bounced by the rival Ravens 28-14 in the wild-card round this season. Tomlin is 183-107-2 overall
“I understand the nature of what it is that we do, the attention and criticism that comes with it,” Tomlin told reporters on Tuesday after another disappointing end to the season. “As a matter of fact, I embrace it, to be quite honest with you. I enjoy the urgency that comes with what I do and what we do.
“I don’t make excuses for failure. I own it, but I also feel like I’m capable and so as long as I’m afforded an opportunity to do that, I will continue. But I certainly understand their frustrations and probably more important than that, I share it because that’s how I’m wired.”
The Bears, who fired coach Matt Eberflus in late November, are one of the most intriguing coaching openings this cycle with former No. 1 pick Caleb Williams at quarterback and the No. 10 pick in this year’s draft.
They have completed head coaching interviews with all the H๏τ candidates, including Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and former Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy.
